To all the men who have fathered other men’s children.

To those who took on the responsibility to provide for, to love and to model Christ when you didn’t have to.

To the men who have loved their mothers enough to make a commitment to her, a covenant that will not be broken.

To those who gave their name, their identity, their heritage.

To the men who taught them what a good day’s work is, what is looks like to lead lovingly, and how to build character and integrity.

To those who worked with sons and danced with daughters.

  *   *   *   *   *   *   

You are an important part of the story, just like Joseph was in the life of Jesus.  Though he was not the birth father, he put on the cloak of duty without concern for himself.  He forsook fear and lifted the shield of faith.  He disregarded the questions about his honor and what others thought about him.   He had been given the truth and that was enough.

It was enough for Joseph to obey where he was called, to go forward and not look back.

And he, Joseph, called His name Yeshua.

The angel said, “Joseph, descendant of David, don’t be afraid to take Mary as your wife. The baby in her is from the Holy Spirit.  She will give birth to a son. You will name the son Jesus.  Give him that name because he will save his people from their sins.”  Matthew 1:20-21

Sunday grace.